Abbi Strader, a graduating Master of Social Work (MSW) student at Illinois State University, embodies the essence of resilience and dedication in her pursuit of social change. Transitioning from roles in crisis intervention and early childhood education, Strader found her passion in social work. Since entering the program at Illinois State, she seamlessly balanced her academic pursuits with her roles as a wife and mother.
Her commitment to empowering communities is exemplified in her role at the Boys and Girls Club where she not only managed a caseload of children, but has also spearheaded initiatives to promote behavioral health and trauma-informed care, including creating a safe space for kids to decompress and process strong emotions.
Strader’s impact extends beyond academia, as she leveraged her employment to integrate social work principles into the club’s programming, fostering a supportive environment for vulnerable youth. Through her advocacy and leadership, she is driven to continue her journey of service, compassion, and advocacy, leaving a mark on the world around her. As she graduates with her MSW degree, Strader stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to join her in the pursuit of a brighter, more equitable future.
Bailey Birditt ’23, a graduating MSW student, exemplifies the passion and dedication needed in the field of social work. Graduating from her undergraduate program in 2023, Birditt seamlessly transitioned into the MSW program with a specialization in child and family services. Inspired by her own experience with a social worker during a period of teenage dating violence, Birditt’s journey into social work was born from a desire to support others facing similar challenges. Her resilience and determination to turn personal hardship into a source of empowerment for others highlight her unwavering commitment to make a difference in the world. A desire to shift the narrative, not only for herself but also for the community she serves.
Throughout her academic and professional endeavors, Birditt’s placements and internships have provided valuable opportunities to make a tangible impact on the Bloomington-Normal community. From her work at a domestic violence shelter during her undergraduate years to her current role as a drug court clinician, Birditt has demonstrated a hands-on approach to social work focused on evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation practices. Her ability to build partnerships with clients, empower them, and advocate for their needs makes her a fantastic addition to the field of social work!
In the bustling suburbs of South Chicago, Diamond Crowder’s upbringing was shaped by family values and a strong connection to community, church, and service. Raised by her parents in a tight-knit environment alongside her brother, Crowder’s early years instilled in her a sense of responsibility and compassion that would guide her path toward social work.
From a young age, Crowder knew she wanted to pursue higher education, a goal encouraged by her parents. However, the journey to her current position as a social work graduate student at Illinois State University was not without its challenges. A pivotal moment came when she made the decision to join the National Guard in 2018, a choice motivated by both financial considerations and a desire for personal growth.
Crowder’s passion for social work stems from her deep-rooted belief in the importance of mental health and breaking generational cycles of trauma. Inspired by her grandmother’s selfless dedication to caring for children with disabilities, Crowder is committed to advocating for those who are marginalized or underserved. With a focus on both micro-level interventions and macro-level systemic change, Crowder aims to empower individuals and communities to overcome adversity and thrive. As Crowder reflects on what being a part of the helping profession means to her, she said, “It’s just one of those things where it’s like, it just feels good at the end of the day of knowing that you did something for somebody else.”
“It just feels good at the end of the day of knowing that you did something for somebody else.”
Diamond Crowder
As we highlight these exemplary individuals, we look to the network of support that led each of them to their success. Whether the support came from the nuclear family, extended family, friends, church, professors, their employers, or the school of social work, we stand with gratitude for the shaping of these individuals. Our community has, is, and will continue to benefit from their passion for lifting others up.
We are Redbird proud of you, Diamond Crowder, Bailey Birditt, and Abbi Strader!
